6 Strength Exercises for Runners

March 29, 2017

Muscle imbalances and weakness are the main culprits of many running injuries. When we are weak in one area, our bodies find a way to overcompensate in another. Over time, such imbalances can lead to unwanted aches and pains and long-term injuries if unaddressed. Since the goal is always to get to the starting line healthy, doing regular strengthening exercises to prevent injury is critical.

I naively expected that my body would bounce back after pregnancy by the six-week mark. After all, that’s what seemed to work for many runners I knew, all the books I read used six weeks as the benchmark and my doctor said I could return to running at my six-week follow-up appointment. My experience has not been “by the book,” as I’ve had weakness in various parts of my body from a hormone called relaxin that affects pregnant and breastfeeding women.

After seeing a physical therapist to do an overall assessment and be proactive in my return to running, below are the six exercises he recommended to me to strengthen my weak glute, hip flexor and abs as well as help me get stronger after pregnancy. I’ve been doing these every other day. In the video below, I show you how to complete each exercise.

Here is a helpful reminder you can print and keep handy as you do my strengthening exercises for runners. Although they were created with my needs in mind, they are excellent exercises for any runner.

What strength training workouts do you do to run injury-free and strong?

Comments

Allie

I do ALL of this almost every day and it really works! I have wonky hamstrings and IT band issues due to weak glutes and imbalances and all of these exercises help a ton, although they are a pain to fit into an otherwise insane day…but I do them.
Thanks for sharing mama!

Laura

I do a lot of these too… it’s made a difference for me too. Especially after kids- it’s crazy how different our bodies are. As for the 6 weeks… don’t believe it. I didn’t feel like my body was totally mine again until at least a year both times… in terms of running and race times, closer to 2 years. So be kind and patient to your body!

Kara A. Forrest

I have been continuing to set goals for more strength training. It does help a ton, I just need to be consistent!! Thanks for sharing!

Laura @ This Runner's Recipes

I do many of these exercises – those toe raises and arch raises are surprisingly effective! Good for you for being proactive – you’re such an inspiration!

Gina

Thank you for sharing this. I need to try to incorporate every night before bed.

Sarah

These are so great! I was going to make a glute video with these moves for one of my coaching clients but I think I’ll just share yours!

rUnladylike

Thanks friend! I know how much you talked about PT work after your babies. It is really helping me. xoxo